Arterial Embolism is a sudden interruption of blood flow to an organ or body part due to a clot (embolus).

Causes of Arterial Embolism
An embolus is a blood clot or a piece of plaque that acts like a clot. Emboli means there is more than one clot or piece of plaque. When the clot travels from the site where it formed to another location in the body, it is called an embolism. An Arterial Embolism may be caused by one or more clots. The clots can get stuck in an artery and block blood flow. The blockage starves tissues of blood and oxygen. This can result in damage or tissue death (necrosis).

Arterial emboli often occur in the legs and feet. Emboli that occur in the brain cause a stroke. Ones that occur in the heart cause a heart attack. Less common sites include the kidneys, intestines, and eyes.

Risk factors for Arterial Embolism include:
Injury or damage to an artery wall
Conditions that increase blood clotting
A type of abnormal heart rhythm called Atrial Fibrillation

Symptoms
Symptoms may begin quickly or slowly depending on the size of the embolus and how much it blocks the blood flow.

Symptoms of an Arterial Embolism in the Arms or Legs:
• Cold arm or leg
• Fingers or hands feel cool
• Weakness of an arm or leg
• Pale color of the arm or leg
• Muscle pain in the affected area
• Decreased or no pulse in an arm or leg
• Numbness and tingling in the arm or leg
• Muscle spasm in the affected areLack of movement in the arm or leg

Diagnosis of Arterial Embolism:
• Echocardiogram
• MRI of the arm or leg
• Transesophageal Echocardiography
• Myocardial contrast echocardiography
• Doppler ultrasound exam of an extremity
• Duplex Doppler ultrasound exam of extremity
• Angiography of the affected extremity or organ

Treatment for Arterial Embolism
Arterial Embolism requires prompt treatment at a hospital. The goals of treatment are to control symptoms and to improve the interrupted blood flow to the affected area of the body. The cause of the clot, if found, should be treated to prevent further problems.

Prevention of Arterial Embolism
Prevention begins with finding the source of the blood clot. Your health care provider may prescribe blood thinners to prevent clots from forming. Anti-platelet drugs may also be needed.

Seek counsel from our Heart Doctors in Houston if you suspect you are suffering from Carotid Artery Disease for the best treatment options for you.